Where We Focus

Where We Focus

The Abell Foundation supports organizations that are building a stronger Baltimore where all its residents can thrive. Baltimore is rich in talent and determination, but it also faces significant, interconnected challenges that stem from structural racism, poverty, and unequal access to opportunity and resources.

Photo courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore.

Our Approach

The Foundation’s grantmaking, research, and investments leverage our city’s tremendous assets while working to improve systems so that they are more just and promote the well-being and safety of all Baltimoreans. We support an intentionally diverse and wide-ranging set of strategies, projects, and organizations that strive to create more equitable opportunities.

Our grantmaking and research initiatives are rooted in seven core program areas that help us focus our work. We understand that our communities and the challenges they face are interconnected and some projects will not fit neatly into a single category. We encourage you to reach out to one of our program officers and start a conversation before applying.

Grants

We provide grants to nonprofit community partners who operate vital programs and services, create more equitable opportunities, and advocate for changes to support communities most affected by structural racism and disinvestment.

Research

We support research on complex challenges facing Baltimore and Maryland and innovative solutions that address those challenges.

Investments

We make catalytic investments in new businesses that offer significant social and economic benefits to Baltimore City.

Our Program Areas

Learn more about where we focus our grantmaking, research, and investments.

2023 Funding Distribution:

Dollar Amount of Grants Awarded in 2023
$16,073,091
Number of Grants Awarded in 2023
255
Average Size of Grant Awarded in 2023
$64,205
Range: Lowest/Highest
$500 – $400,000

 

*Reflects reduction for cancellations, refunds, and grant-related expenditures; excludes grants with unmet conditions.

Past Grants

Learn more about our grantees and their work to enhance the quality of life in Baltimore.
Filter our past grants by year or program area, or search by keyword.

See Our Past Grants

Header photo of Saint Luke’s Youth Center by Wide Angle Productions, a social enterprise of Wide Angle Youth Media.